9 Foods to Boost Your Immune System

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Exercise, limiting toxins, and getting plenty of rest will all keep your immune system in check. But if you're looking for a tasty way to give your immune system a boost, take a look at adding some health-enhancing foods to your diet. Below, we'll run through nine foods that you'll want to have stocked in your kitchen.

Broccoli


Oh, broccoli — so versatile, so tasty, so good for you. Broccoli can help to nudge your immune system in the right direction because of its high Vitamin C content. It also contains sulfur compounds that help your body to produce glutathione, which has been shown to support the immune system.

Eggs


The jury was out on the health benefits of eggs for a while, but now, the verdict is in — and it's good news for people who like scrambled eggs for breakfast. Eggs are jam-packed with protein, which is essential for good immune health, and also have tons of nutrients that'll have you feeling your best.

Chickpeas


If you've been told that a vegan lifestyle is unhealthy, think again. There's a whole load of protein in a portion of chickpeas, which allows the tasty food to keep your essential systems working properly. They also contain a lot of zinc, which regulates immune response.

Citrus Fruits


If you've got a cold, you'll likely be clearing out your supermarket's supply of orange juice. And that's a good move because oranges, like all citrus fruits, are ripe with vitamin C, which helps to bolster your immune system. You don't need to wait until you're ill to make oranges, lemons, and limes part of your diet. Take them daily, and your immune system will be stronger than ever.

Sweet Potato


Sweet potato is so delicious that we'd probably eat it even if it was bad for us. Happily, it's not — it's the opposite. They contain a whole bunch of the good stuff that you need, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. So if you've been looking for an excuse to have more sweet potato fries, there you are!

Garlic


There's a reason why cultures all around the world incorporate garlic into their diets — it's good for just about everything, including keeping your immune system in tip-top condition. It's great when you have a cold, but to get the most benefit, take it when you're feeling well too.

Spinach


There's something magical about dark leafy greens, and the best example of that is spinach. It contains Vitamin C, beta carotene, and oxidants, all of which your body needs.

Mushrooms


Sunshine helps your immune system because it provides Vitamin D. But what if it's winter? In that case, turn to mushrooms — they're full of Vitamin D, which helps your body to process other important nutrients, such as calcium.

Sunflower Seeds


You don't need to eat a full meal to give your immune system a boost. For instance, you can always snack on sunflower seeds. They're a staple of Mediterranean diets because they're extremely rich in Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps your immune system.


immune system | nutrition | healthy foods